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Age distribution of schistosomiasis and other gastrointestinal related parasitic infections amongst children aged 0-15 years in oguta imo state, Nigeria; a retrospective study of prevalence rates (2012-2015)

Background: Despite major redevelopments and changes to existing health care delivery infrastructure a range of pathologies and associated health problems prevail that impact on society as a whole. Many of these diseases and health problems are directly attributable to lifestyle choices and environmental factors. One of these diseases is Schistosomiasis (also known as bilharzias), a condition still prevalent in countries such as Nigeria, with school age children most commonly affected. This study analysed the specific age distribution of Schistosomiasis and other gastrointestinal (GI) related parasitic infections among children (0-15 years) in Holy Ghost Hospital, Imo State Nigeria from 2012 – 2015. Methodology: Using a retrospective survey design, to provide a quantitatively measurable and statistical description of the subject under study the demographic profiles of 323 children with a clinical diagnosis of Schistosomiasis were collected. Details collated included year of clinical diagnosis, age, gender, diagnosis, parent occupation and other related GI parasitic infections. Result: The demographic profiles of 353 children (between the ages of 0-15 years) were anonymised. Of the 353 children clinically diagnosed of Schistosomiasis from 2012-2015, 263(75%), were male while 90(25%) were female. The age distribution of the population sample was 11-15years (62%); 6 -10years (31%) and 0-5 years (7%) respectively. Frequency of the Schistosomiasis amongst the 353 children was; age range 11-15years 219, 6-10years 110 and 0-5years 24. Results also demonstrated that children whose parents are fishermen and traders had highest prevalence rates of GI infection, followed by those whose parents were businessmen and civil servants. The majority of the children had an additional clinical diagnosis of Ascaris lumbricoidies, which represent 91% of this group, followed by Trichuris trichura 8%, with only 1% of the population not having a formal diagnosis of GI related infection. Conclusion: High prevalence rates of Schistosomiasis in Oguta are of great significance in paediatric caseloads; this study indicates a need for urgent intervention in controlling the exponential increase of these pathologies. Findings from the survey indicate the need to implement treatment in remote geographical areas not previously targeted by mass drug administration programmes.